System and method for providing enhanced questions for matching in a network environment

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for providing a feature in a network environment is provided that includes a central web site operable to interface with one or more end users and to manage information related to one or more of the end users. The central web site includes a set of questions for one or more of the end users to complete, whereby the central web site is operable to display a comparison of answers for the questions that are submitted by a first end user and a second end user.

RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application is a continuation of, and claims the benefit ofpriority under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/237,491,filed Sep. 27, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,676,466, entitled SYSTEM ANDMETHOD FOR PROVIDING ENHANCED QUESTIONS FOR MATCHING IN A NETWORKENVIRONMENT, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

This application is related to U.S. application Ser. No. 12/266,730,filed Nov. 7, 2008, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A NEARMATCHES FEATURE IN A NETWORK ENVIRONMENT,” which is aContinuation-in-Part of the following U.S. Applications: U.S.application Ser. No. 11/237,418, filed Sep. 27, 2005; U.S. applicationSer. No. 11/237,419, filed Sep. 27, 2005, U.S. application Ser. No.11/237,490, filed Sep. 27, 2005; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/237,584,filed Sep. 27, 2005; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/237,585, filed Sep.27, 2005; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/237,582, filed Sep. 27, 2005; andU.S. application Ser. No. 11/237,583, filed Sep. 27, 2005. Thedisclosure of these applications are considered part of (and isincorporated by reference in) the disclosure of this application.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general to the field of communications and,more particularly, to a system and a method for providing enhancedquestions for matching in a network environment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Networking architectures have grown increasingly complex incommunications environments. In recent years, a series of protocols andconfigurations have been developed in order to accommodate a diversegroup of end users having various networking needs. Many of thesearchitectures have gained significant notoriety because they can offerthe benefits of automation, convenience, management, and enhancedconsumer selections.

Certain network protocols may be used in order to allow an end user toconduct an on-line search of candidates to fill a given vacancy. Theseprotocols may relate to job searches, person finding services, realestate searches, or on-line dating. While some naive business peoplebelieve that on-line dating is simply a matter of matching supply anddemand, there is statistical and empirical evidence to suggest thatsuccessful on-line dating entails far more.

For example, people having similar and/or compatible character traitsand values should be matched together. However, effectively linking twoparticipants together can prove to be a challenging endeavor.Coordinating a relationship between two like-minded individuals can be asignificant chore, as there are a number of obstacles and barriers thatmust be overcome.

It would also be beneficial to counsel certain users about a datingdeficiency that they may have. In addition, it may be useful to compile,process, and maximize all feedback information that is given by an enduser such that this information can be evaluated and then leveraged inorder to deliver an optimal candidate selection or match pool to the enduser.

In still other scenarios, participants in an on-line dating scenario mayneed guidance on making arrangements for a first date. Suggestions andrecommendations are welcomed by participants who are unsure of whichdating location would be appropriate for both participants. Most endusers would also appreciate being afforded the opportunity to exit thedating experience at any time. Still other end users would enjoy readingcandid responses from a prospective mate, while simultaneously havingsome control over the questions being asked.

These operations (and many others) need to be accounted for by a systemoperator in order to achieve a suitable level of satisfaction from theircustomers. Systems that fail to account for these issues can misleadtheir customers, frustrate their clients, and waste the time of allthose involved. Note that any features provided by a given datingplatform should be easily understood and readily used by the consumer.The end user should not be burdened with complex or cryptic technologythat he has to decipher before utilizing. Accordingly, the ability toprovide effective mechanisms and features for optimally matching in anon-line community offers a significant challenge to web site operators,component manufacturers, and system designers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

From the foregoing, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the artthat a need has arisen for an improved communications platform thatprovides for more beneficial features in offering networking servicesand capabilities to an end user. In accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention, a system and a method for providing an on-linedating platform in a network environment are provided that greatlyreduce disadvantages and problems associated with conventional on-linedating management techniques.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method forproviding a feature in a network environment is provided that includes acentral web site operable to interface with one or more end users and tomanage information related to one or more of the end users. The web siteincludes an interest rating component that allows one or more of the endusers to indicate a level of interest in one or more of the other endusers.

In more particular embodiments, the interest rating component isprovided as a graphical illustration that reflects a slider bar to beused by one or more of the end users in order to make selections ordesignations about potential dating candidates. In still more particularembodiments, if the slider bar is moved in one direction, indicating astrong preference for a particular candidate, then the particularcandidate is moved to an active state where a relationship between twoof the end users progresses. If the slider bar is moved to in anotherdirection, indicating a low level of interest for a particularcandidate, then the particular candidate is moved to an inactive statewhere a relationship between two of the end users does not continue. Adesignation of the slider bar by one of the end users represents aquantitative value to be processed by the central web site. The centralweb site can use the interest rating component to match two of the endusers that have substantially similar interest ratings.

Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide a number oftechnical advantages. For example, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, a service approach is provided that allows a givenend user to utilize a level of interest rating component. An interestlevel slider bar can be used by the end user in order to make selectionsor designations about potential dating candidates. The slider bar iseasy to use and can solicit the end user's thoughts about a prospectivemate. The level of interest bar is conducive to an expedient disposal ofindividuals that offer minimal intrigue for the end user. In a similarfashion, the level of interest bar can be readily utilized in order toinitiate the next step in the dating process.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the end user isprovided with a number of comparison features. For example, in someembodiments, a personality profile can be displayed to the end userconcurrently with the personality profile of a potential candidate.Using such a comparison/contrast format, the end user could readily seehow his interests and character traits are aligned or asymmetrical:either of which may produce positive or negative outcomes. Othercomparisons (or overlay formats) can be provided by the question/answersections of the dating platform. Note that many of the questions beinganswered by a given participant may be pre-selected by the interestedparticipant (or chosen by their own accord). This offers a higher degreeof control for the end user and also focuses on issues that are trulyimportant to each individual. Many of these features are discussed ingreater detail below with reference to corresponding FIGURES.

Yet another advantage of the present invention relates to a post-datefollow up features. The responses from the post-date follow up are aninvaluable tool for the operator of the website. The responses reflectimportant character traits that can be fed back into the system forfuture matches. Additionally, the operator can offer constructivefeedback to an end user who appears to be struggling in some area ofdating. In one implementation, a cumulative average (e.g. after three ormore dates) could be taken of several post-date questions, whereby asingle area can be pinpointed for improvement. This is verifiable,informative, and truthful dating information for the end user toconsider.

Note that there is a plethora of additional advantages that are providedby the tendered architecture. Some of these advantages are evident afterreviewing the FIGURES and accompanying discussions. Certain embodimentsof the present invention may enjoy some, all, or none of these outlinedadvantages. Other technical advantages may be readily apparent to oneskilled in the art from the following figures, description, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To provide a more complete understanding of the present invention andfeatures and advantages thereof, reference is made to the followingdescription, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, whereinlike reference numerals represent like parts, in which:

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a system for providing anon-line dating service in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 2A-H are simplified screen shots of an example protocol forparticipating in an on-line dating service;

FIGS. 3A-B are simplified screen shots of an example profile to be usedin the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 4A-C are simplified screen shots involving an example personalityprofile to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 5 is a simplified screen shot of an example home page for an enduser of the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 6A-B are simplified screen shots of an example “Interested In You”profile to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 6C is an example schematic that shows how the “Interested In You”component can operate in one implementation;

FIGS. 7A-H are simplified screen shots of an example listing of activematches to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 8 is a simplified screen shot of an example summary profile to beused in the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 9A-B are simplified screen shots of an example full profile to beused in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 10 is a simplified screen shot of an example matching protocol tobe used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 11 is a simplified screen shot of an example photograph to be usedin the on-line dating service;

FIG. 12 is a simplified screen shot of an example slider bar to be usedin the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 13A-D are simplified screen shots of example relationshipessentials to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 14 is a simplified screen shot of an example short answerintroduction to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 15A-C are simplified screen shots of example short answerquestions to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 16 is a simplified screen shot of an example short answer responseto be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 17 is a simplified screen shot of an example “Ready To Meet”introduction to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 18A-B are simplified screen shots of an example pre-date profileand scheduling protocol to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 19 is a simplified screen shot of an example pre-date confirmationto be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 20 is a simplified screen shot of an example suggestion of where tomeet to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 21 is a simplified screen shot of an example post-datequestionnaire to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIG. 22 is a simplified screen shot of an example limited searchcriteria template to be used in the on-line dating service;

FIGS. 23A-S are simplified screen shots of an example introductory phaseto be used in the on-line dating service; and

FIGS. 24A-G are simplified screen shots of an example pre-date phase tobe used in the on-line dating service.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a system for facilitating anon-line dating scenario in a network environment. In other embodiments,system 10 can be leveraged to identify and to evaluate suitablecandidates in other areas (e.g. hiring/employment, recruiting, realestate, general person searches, etc.). FIG. 1 includes multiple endusers 12, a communications network 14, a central web site 18, and asupplemental web site 20. FIG. 1 may be configured such that inter andintra-communications are readily achieved by any of the componentsincluded therein. The present invention is capable of providing both anon-line component (as illustrated by FIG. 1) and an off-line component(as described below) such that one or more end users can meet, gatherinformation, resolve to meet, and then subsequently meet in person withthe assistance of system 10. Ancillary components to such acomprehensive process may involve pre-date profiles, post-datefollow-ups, and a myriad of other significant features, as outlined ingreater detail below.

System 10 can be used to offer a multitude of unique features andcapabilities to a group of end users. A brief summary of some of thesefeatures is offered immediately below. Additional details relating toeach of these tools is discussed more fully with reference to theaccompanying FIGURES.

A first feature provided by system 10 relates to a “Level of InterestRating.” An end user is provided with a web prompt (e.g. a slider bar),which solicits the end user's interest level of a potential candidate.The scale can range from “No Interest” to “High Interest” or system 10can use any other gradation where appropriate. Such an interest-ometerstands in stark contrast to other rudimentary systems in which a simplematch is generated based on profile information. Moreover, priorarchitectures process according to strict compatibility, but fail toaccommodate the interest component. Consider the case where a person'sprofile information would suggest one potential mate, but their interestbar resultants yield an attraction to a completely different type ofindividual. System 10 effectively accounts for such a discrepancy (andothers) in offering a superior method of matching two individuals.

The indicated interest can be sent to system 10 and, further, be used inadditional processing for this end user. In such a scenario, feedbackfrom the interest bar can be aggregated, compiled, and processed for thefuture coordination of potential matches. Hence, a reevaluation protocolis facilitated by continuing to leverage results from the interest bar.

A second feature provided by system 10 relates to multi-tieredquestions. Along the dating continuum, several levels of questions areproffered for the end user. During the unique questioning protocol,preferred answers are selected by one candidate and then the otherpotential candidate receives the questions that include these answers.The questions/stages can be completed in pairs. The results are thendisplayed in a novel way, whereby selections from one candidate areillustrated along with the other candidate's responses. This scale (orseesaw configuration) readily displays the differences, the range ofdifferences, and/or the congruency in the answers. Note that the “NotInterested” bar is displayed throughout the dating process such that theend user can exit the romantic pursuit at any given time. The discussionof this second feature is amenable to detailed illustrations, which arediscussed below.

A third feature provided by system 10 relates to a resolution to ameeting. Lacking in most system is any method for facilitating a meetingafter the first three stages of interaction have been finished. System10 addresses this void by offering a pre-date profile for theparticipants to complete. Optimal date, time, cuisine, and otherpreferences can be solicited from both parties. Once a mutuallyagreeable date has been planned, the parties are invited to meet at theproposed time, place, and location. In a particular embodiment, duringthe course of the date, a courtesy phone call may be placed to either ofthe participants (or a specific participant at their request) in orderto indicate that the date has ended. Note that a first date may only befor coffee; so once the allotted time has passed, the meeting shouldconclude. In another embodiment, such a call could be used to provide agraceful exit for a party who is experiencing an uncomfortablesituation.

A fourth feature provided by system 10 relates to a post-dateevaluation. Once the date is completed, the parties can return to thesite and fill out a post-date follow up evaluation. This may beinclusive of questions that relate to appearance, punctuality,chemistry, etc. A sampling of these questions is provided and discussedbelow with reference to corresponding FIGURES. A second datesolicitation could also readily be provided at this point along thedating timeline. Additionally, a dating report card could be provided toeach of the end users. This could be done in order to provide benign,constructive feedback to an end user, who may be experiencing difficultyin one particular facet of his dating approach (e.g. the end user may becounseled to focus on being a better listener).

A fifth feature provided by system 10 relates to an “Interested in You”component. The “Interested in You” component is broken into twosegments: 1) Match List; and 2) Interested in You. Other on-line datingplatforms simply populate matches concurrently. In the architecture ofsystem 10, the interest level is separated from the “want to meet”element. The other candidate only receives an e-mail if the interestlevel is positive (e.g. greater than 7 [scale 1-10]). Negative interestlevels are not communicated to the other potential match. Thesefunctionalities can be better understood with reference to accompanyingillustrations and the discussions that are provided below.

A sixth feature provided by system 10 relates to a limited search, whichcan be conducted by a participant. The limited search may be somewhatconstricted (e.g. only one limited search per day). The limited searchcapability would allow an end user to seek out individuals having anexact qualification or a specific characteristic. This would achieve alevel of granularity for the end user, who may have precise criteria forchoosing a romantic interest to pursue. Additional platform tools,capabilities, and features are provided below and are discussed withreference to accompanying FIGURES. These elements are describedimmediately following the subsequent description of the components ofthe architecture of FIG. 1.

End users 12 are clients, customers, prospective customers, or entitieswishing to participate in an on-line dating scenario and/or to viewinformation associated with other participants in the system. End users12 may also seek to access or to initiate a communication with otherusers that may be delivered via communications network 14. End users 12may review data (such as profiles for example) associated with otherusers in order to make matching decisions or elections. Data, as usedherein in this document, refers to any type of numeric, voice, video, orscript data, or any other suitable information in any appropriate formatthat may be communicated from one point to another.

In one embodiment, end user 12 represents (and is inclusive of) apersonal computer that may be used to access the Internet.Alternatively, end user 12, as illustrated in FIG. 1, may berepresentative of a cellular telephone, an electronic notebook, alaptop, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or any other suitable device(wireless or otherwise: some of which can perform web browsing),component, or element capable of accessing one or more elements withinsystem 10. An end user interface, which may be provided in conjunctionwith the items listed above, may further comprise any suitable interfacefor a human user such as a display, a video camera, a microphone, akeyboard, a mouse, or any other appropriate terminal equipment accordingto particular configurations and arrangements. In addition, the end userinterface may be a unique element designed specifically forcommunications involving system 10. Such an element may be fabricated orproduced specifically for matching applications involving end user 12.

Communications network 14 is a communicative platform operable toexchange data or information emanating from end user 12. Communicationsnetwork 14 represents an Internet architecture in a particularembodiment of the present invention, which provides end user 12 with theability to electronically execute or to initiate actions associated withfinding a potential candidate. Alternatively, communications network 14could be a plain old telephone system (POTS), which end user 12 coulduse to perform the same operations or functions. Such transactions maybe assisted by management associated with central web site 18 ormanually keyed into a telephone or other suitable electronic equipment.In other embodiments, communications network 14 could be any packet datanetwork (PDN) offering a communications interface or exchange betweenany two nodes in system 10. Communications network 14 may alternativelybe any local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), widearea network (WAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), virtual privatenetwork (VPN), intranet, or any other appropriate architecture or systemthat facilitates communications in a network or telephonic environment.

Central web site 18 is a server (in one embodiment) that is operable toreceive and to communicate information to end user 12. Alternatively,central web site 18 may be any switch, router, gateway, processor,component, object, or element operable to facilitate communicationsinvolving end user 12. In one particular embodiment, central web site 18is engaged in facilitating interaction(s) between parties interested inseeking a romantic partner (i.e. on-line dating). For example, centralweb site 18 can be on-line dating service provider www.Match.com. Inother embodiments, central web site 18 is any web site or architectureinterested in facilitating a connection involving two or more people,and which may make use of a given photograph. This could includeservices associated with job placements, escort services, real estate,recruiting services (e.g. in athletics or in academic settings), etc.

Supplemental web site 20 is a server (in one embodiment) that isoperable to receive and to communicate information to end user 12.Alternatively, supplemental web site 20 may be any switch, router,gateway, processor, component, object, or element operable to facilitatecommunications involving end user 12. In one particular embodiment,supplemental web site 20 is operable to perform processing functions forcentral website 18. For example, supplemental web site 20 can be used tocoordinate scheduling, execute matching algorithms, assist in uploadingor downloading large pieces of data, implement billing protocols for endusers, etc. Supplemental web site 20 can alleviate any of the processingloads present in the network.

A link may be provided on either central web site 18 or supplemental website 20 (or on both) such that a given end user can be immediatelydirected to the other site. While one embodiment offers a connectionbetween these two sites, these two sites may be completely independentof each other in other embodiments, where independent entities operatethese sites. In the case that these two sites are operable tocommunicate with each other, a secure connection can be provided inorder to maintain the integrity of the information propagating betweenthe sites and to protect the privacy of the individuals implicated bythe communications.

With regard to the specific items that effectuate the teachings of thepresent invention, central web site 18 and/or supplemental web site 20may include software and/or algorithms to achieve the operations forprocessing, communicating, delivering, gathering, uploading,maintaining, and/or generally managing data, as described herein. Thisincludes suitably displaying some or all of these items. Alternatively,such operations and techniques may be achieved by any suitable hardware,component, device, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC),additional software, field programmable gate array (FPGA), server,processor, algorithm, erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electricallyerasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or any other suitable object that isoperable to facilitate such operations. Considerable flexibility isprovided by the structure of central web site 18 and supplemental website 20 in the context of system 10. Thus, it can be easily appreciatedthat such functions could be provided external to central web site 18and supplemental web site 20. In such cases, such a functionality couldbe readily embodied in a separate component, server, processor, device,or module. Note that these on-line dating features and capabilities maybe provided in just one of these elements, in both, or distributedacross both of them. Hence, in certain embodiments, the on-line datingoperations may be consolidated in a single web site, where noredirection is needed, nor performed for the user.

In operation of an example flow, consider a case where a given end useris interested in participating in an on-line dating scenario. End user12 can access the Internet, travel to central web site 18, register, andcreate a profile on the site. Note that end user 12 may accesssupplemental web site 20 directly as well. Moreover, end user 12 canaccess either web site through any suitable banner, pop-up, partnership,e-mail solicitations, direct mailings, etc. It can be appreciated thaton-line commerce can be generated by a plethora of marketing tools andany such tools can readily cooperate with the operations of the presentinvention.

From this point, matching (of any form) can commence amongst the membersof the on-line community. For example, in the context of a romanticendeavor, a person may begin the dating process or engage incommunications that would spawn such dating. Other applications couldinclude job applicants who are being sought by employers. Any of theindividuals who reside in the on-line community can begin using any ofthe tools or capabilities of the platform.

FIGS. 2A-H illustrate example screen shots that may be provided in theon-line dating process and which may be used for purposes of discussion.It is imperative to note that these illustrations are only beingprovided to further outline a particular implementation of the presentinvention. In no way should these diagrams be used to limit or torestrict the broad teachings of the present invention. Such illustrativeinformation has been offered earnestly and, thus, should not beconstrued to confine the broad applications of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is an example screen shot of a home page in which an interestedend user may begin his/her journey. In this example, the home pageoffers zip code information, as well as a preliminary election of an ageand a gender preference. After clicking on the “How it Works” icon onthe home page, the end user is directed to the screen shot of FIG. 2B.FIG. 2B is an example screen shot that outlines (generically) theon-line dating process. At a first step, an end user browses the website. Now interested in participating, the end user then creates aprofile. The third step in the process involves subscribing to theservice and then receiving information from others who are part of theon-line community.

FIG. 2C is an example screen shot of a number of profiles. In thecontext of this shot, an end user may be simply browsing. Once an enduser has clicked on a given person in this screen, he is directed toFIG. 2D, where he is solicited to sign up for the on-line datingsubscription such that he can effectively contact his candidateselection. FIGS. 2E-H are example screen shots of a profile of a givenend user. In this instance, her criteria are displayed, as well as otherinformation that may be pertinent to a potential mate. Any suitableitems can be provided in such a profile (such as interests, favorite hotspots, favorite things, desire for children, background, etc.).Virtually any information (inclusive of video and audio data) may beprovided in such a profile.

FIGS. 3A-B are simplified screen shots of an example profile to be usedin the on-line dating platform. The profile includes information thatwas solicited from this end user (“Todd”) when he set up his on-linedating account. The profile includes general information (e.g. address,height, weight, etc.), as well as a segment that reflects some of Todd'spersonal feelings or his outlook on the world. This information in thesetwo FIGURES is only a profile summary, whereby a full profile can bestored within system 10 at a different location.

Note the level of interest rating component to FIG. 3A. An interestlevel slider bar is used by the end user in order to make selections ordesignations about potential dating candidates. The slider bar is easyto use and can solicit the end user's thoughts about a prospective mate.(Note that such a slider bar is simply a graphical illustration thatsimplifies the end user's experience. Other graphical illustrations mayinclude (but not be limited to), a knob, a bar-graph representation, orany other chart, symbol, picture, illustration, or object capable ofdisplaying an end user's interest level.) The level of interest bar isconducive to an expedient disposal of individuals that offer minimalintrigue to the end user. In a similar fashion, the level of interestbar can readily be utilized in order to initiate the next step in thedating process.

If the slider is moved to the right (indicating a strong preference forthis particular individual), then the person can be moved to an “ActiveMatches” tab (i.e. a queue), where the relationship progresses to thenext level. If the slider is moved to the left (indicating a low levelof interest in this individual), then this person can be placed into an“Archive” where the relationship does not continue. Note that aninference can be made based on the level of the slider bar such that apotential candidate can be immediately directed to an end user's activematches. In other embodiments, there is no default to “Active Matches”and the end user must manually make this decision: no matter his levelof interest rating. For example, a simple prompt may be provided to theend user such that, for a proffered candidate, the end user makes anelection (e.g. by clicking his mouse to make a selection) for “ActiveMatches” or “Archive.”

The slider bar represents an easy way for an end user to engage in thecandidate selection process. Engagement could yield a progression towarda future relationship or it could remove individuals from considerationfrom an end user's queue. Both of these actions are productive, as bothare results-oriented. Deciding not to engage a certain individual iscertainly useful, as choices associated with an end user's dislikes arevaluable for identifying and proffering new candidates. This feedbackinformation is imperative to achieving a high level of success in anon-line dating environment.

FIGS. 4A-C are simplified screen shots involving an example personalityprofile to be used in the on-line dating platform. The personalityprofile reflect a series of fun, probing questions that get to the heartof who the end user is and what the end user seeks or needs. Thepersonality profile explores the complex mix of values, traits, andattitudes that are included in the unique identities and relationshipneeds for a given group of end users. At the conclusion of thepersonality profile process, the end user will receive a detailedanalysis of their personality profile and a guide to the personalitytypes with whom the end user is most compatible.

In the context of the particular example of FIGS. 4A-C, a given enduser's personality profile is illustrated. Hence, this end user (Todd)has completed a questionnaire that revealed his personality type (e.g.director, explorer, builder, negotiator, etc.). The answers to thesequestions can create a profile or “love map.” For example, Todd isdesignated as having a major personality type of director and a minorpersonality type of explorer. The responses from Todd are used to matchhim to potential mates based on the compatibility or congruency in theirtraits, as reflected by the results of the test.

Consider the case where congruency is not necessarily optimal in thecontext of a dating scenario. Todd may be extroverted and excessivelysocial, but if his mate shared this character trait, this situation maybe unworkable. Character traits may have complimentary effects, wherebystrict commonality would not always produce an ideal relationshipconnection. In other embodiments, the personality profile of FIGS. 4A-Cis displayed to the end user concurrently with the personality profileof a potential candidate. Using such a comparison/contrast format, theend user could readily see how his interests and character traits arealigned or dissimilar.

Characteristics of all four personality types can be found within eachperson, but there is almost always one personality type that isdominant. This is called the major personality type. The test alsoidentifies minor or secondary personality types. An end user may exhibitsome aspects of this personality type, though not to the same degree aswith the major personality type. In the context of Todd's personalityprofile, a pie chart is illustrated to signify his personality makeup.The analysis is based on his responses to a questionnaire provided bysystem 10. The results here identify Todd's major and minor personalitytypes, as well as the personality types that are most likely to becompatible with his personality.

In this instance, Todd's major personality type=Director and his minorpersonality type=Explorer. Hence, Todd is a DIRECTOR/explorer, which (inthe narrative) indicates: “You are courageous; and you seek challenges.You are a tough-minded, independent, and daring thinker who likes toexplore ideas or problems thoroughly. You focus easily. And you arepersistent, systematic and competent in pursuing your interests andgoals. You also assertive; and you enjoy the opportunities your hardwork wins. You have a lot of energy. You think quickly, make decisionsmore easily than most, dislike unnecessary rules, and take a rationalapproach to people, issues and ideas. You don't often enjoy “smalltalk.” You are generally not interested in pleasing boring people andyou gravitate to men and women who are intellectually exciting and getto their point quickly during conversations. You are not conventional inmost of your attitudes and values. You tend to be irreverent andpragmatic and you like spontaneous people. You can be an exciting, yethard driving and exacting, friend and companion.”

In addition, in this example Todd is E-Explorer—25%, N-Negotiator—25%,B-Builder—22%, and D-Director—26%. The Explorer element of hispersonality is known for high energy and high creativity. Explorers seeknovelty, risk, and pleasure. Also, Explorers are intellectually curiousand not easily swayed by opinion. Todd is also 22% Builder. TheseBuilder individuals are usually popular and have a deep attachment tohome and family. Builders exhibit a calm demeanor and low anxiety andare often focused on achieving financial security. Todd is also 25%Negotiator. A Negotiator excels at seeing the big picture, long-termplanning, and consensus building. Negotiators are quick witted andintuitive. These individuals are also imaginative and nurturing.Finally, Todd is 26% Director. These individuals are skilled at abstractthinking and short-term planning. Directors are often assertive,competitive, and interested in rank and status. Directors are known foreasily making people laugh.

Note that any segment of the test of FIGS. 4A-C can include a MyersBriggs portion for the end user to complete. A Myers Briggs test wouldreveal some personality traits, which may be beneficial to matching twocompatible individuals. Other personality tests could similarly be usedin this area of the platform and, thus, are within the broad scope ofthe present invention.

FIG. 5 is a simplified screen shot of an example home page for an enduser of the on-line dating platform. “New Matches” may be based on acompatibility personality profile, which identifies long-termrelationship potential through variables such as similar or sharedinterests, values, background, and goals. Note that the end user'sfeedback, throughout many of the operations outlined herein, is anintegral part of the matching process. The level of interest inpotential matches allows system 10 to better understand the end user andwhat the end user is looking for in a long term relationship. As system10 accumulates knowledge about the end user's preferences, system 10leverages intelligence that can refine matching criteria to bringbetter, more compatible matches to the end user.

As a general proposition, system 10 is designed to learn from end userfeedback (e.g. what the end user likes, who the end user likes, what theend user does not like, etc.). Input is integrated into system 10 sothat over time system 10 gets a more complete picture of whom exactlythe end user is and whom the end user appears to be seeking. System 10continually learns about the end user. From the first moment the enduser makes a dating decision, system 10 begins to gather and compileimportant data about end user preferences. Throughout the operations ofthe site, system 10 queries the end user for feedback (e.g. Are youinterested in this match? If so, how much? Do you like the way yourmatch answered this question? If not, what is your preferred answer?).Input is immediately processed and used to reevaluate parameters inhopes of offering more compatible matches for the end user to consider.

FIGS. 6A-B are simplified screen shots of an example “Interested In You”profile to be used in the on-line dating platform. In particular, FIG.6A shows that Kristen has indicated a high level of interest in Toddsuch that she is now in his “Interested in You” queue. FIG. 6B showsKristen's complete profile, inclusive of her basic information (address,height, weight, etc.), as well as more personal detailed informationabout her.

FIG. 6C is an example schematic that shows how the “Interested In You”component can operate in one implementation. In one embodiment, thereare only five matches that are shown to a given end user per day. Thiscould be provided in an Active Matches queue or in any other type ofstorage element. Other embodiments include more or less than fivematches. Note that there is some intelligent coordination that can takeplace in such an environment. The following example illustrates such acapability or feature.

In this example, the #2 slot on Todd's list reflects a potential matenamed Brooke. However, on Brooke's list of potential matches, Todd isonly listed in the #8 slot. Because of his position (and assuming thatonly five matches will be seen by a given end user), Todd may be seen byBrooke tomorrow, or the day after that, or (in theory) never. Todd'sdisplacement is dependent on new matches that are populated intoBrooke's queue.

However, Todd can signal that he is interested in Brooke right nowbecause she is currently occupying his second slot in the list. Onepositive effect of Todd signaling that he is interested in Brooke isthat Brooke will generally rate Todd higher than if she would havesimply seen Todd in her Active Matches. This heightened level ofattractiveness is fully supported by statistical research and empiricaldata.

Note that this condition can be exploited in order to achieve greaterdating success for the operator of the dating platform. For example, ifBrooke is generally rated a “7” but only dates persons who hold a levelof “7” or higher, Brooke's queue can be populated with persons having a“6” rating or higher (through manipulation of the “Interested in You”component of system 10). These people will consistently respond toBrooke's picture/profile by indicating that they are interested in herand, subsequently, she will uniformly rate these 6s much higher (e.g. as7s or greater). Hence, one way to achieve the desired effect is topopulate Todd's New Matches with Brooke: this strategy fully expectsTodd to indicate that he is interested in Brooke. Once Brooke receivesthe signal that Todd is interested in her (i.e. Todd shows up in her“Interested in You” queue), then Brooke will rate Todd higher than his“deserved” 6 designation. Once Brooke inputs a level of interest ratingsufficiently high, Todd will be placed in an “active state” (e.g. inactive matches for Brooke) such that the relationship progresses to anext level. The flow in such a scenario is Interested in You (1^(st)direction), then Interested in You (2^(nd) direction), then relationshipessentials, then short answers, then e-mail, and then a meeting. Thesestages can readily be modified or changed based on particular needs.

FIGS. 7A-H are simplified screen shots of an example listing of activematches to be used in the on-line dating platform. These people areidentified by searching through the entire membership to find theindividuals whose personality profile matches that of the end user.Ideally, the two matched individuals have shared values, similar goals,and complementary traits. The end user is not overwhelmed with hundredsof match possibilities: most of which would prove fruitless. Instead,the intelligent matching system brings an end user a few,highly-compatible matches to consider.

In one embodiment, the evolution of the relationship is as follows: 1)relationship essentials; 2) short answers; 3) e-mail; and 4) meet. Inother embodiments, these stages are altered considerably. For example,short answer questions could begin the dating process, whereby stage twowould be relationship essentials, followed by short answers and thene-mail.

FIG. 8 is a simplified screen shot of an example summary profile to beused in the on-line dating platform. FIGS. 9A-B are simplified screenshots of an example full profile to be used in the on-line datingplatform. FIG. 10 is a simplified screen shot of an example matching tobe used in the on-line dating platform. This FIGURE illustrates anexample matching protocol.

FIG. 11 is a simplified screen shot of an example photograph to be usedin the on-line dating platform. In this instance, the end user haschosen a series of photographs: some of which are more austere, whereasothers are more informal and depict the end user in a more relaxedenvironment. The end user is also provided with the ability to selectprimary and secondary shots. In one example, the primary and secondaryshots correspond to head shots and to body shots/action shotsrespectively. For real estate applications, a primary shot may be thefront of the house, whereby a secondary shot is the yard or the interiorof the house. Virtually any designations could be provided for primaryand secondary shots in any given application (e.g. real estate, on-linedating, job applicants, etc.). The designations of primary and secondaryshots here are arbitrary and have only been used in order to providesome examples (amongst many) for the audience to review.

FIG. 12 is a simplified screen shot of an example slider bar to be usedin the on-line dating platform. FIG. 12 reflects Todd's high level ofinterest in Pam. Note that there are two components of the slider barconfiguration that should be appreciated. First, the slider bar engagesthe end user in a benign but direct way. Second, the designation on theslider bar that is made by the end user represents a quantitative valueto be understood by the operators of the web site. For example, theslider bar could have corresponding numeric values that are not visibleto the end user. Hence, a high interest level could correspond to anumeric value of ‘9’ and a low interest level could be a ‘3.’

This rating scale can be used to aggregate scores and to identify anaverage rating value for a particular individual. For example, if Toddrated his interest level of Pam as moderately high, that designationwould be correlated to an ‘8’ rating, which could be added to other enduser's interest ratings of Pam. Although Todd has evaluated Pam as an‘8,’ her true average score could be only a ‘6.’ Because Pam's aggregatescore is a ‘6,’ Pam would be placed into other Active Match queues ofpeople who are also in this 6 category. Stated differently, if Pam hadan average interest rating of 6, then she would be matched with other6s.

This matching of people with (approximately) equivalent level ofinterest ratings is performed because such matching yields the mostsuccess. This result has been proven through statistical data, whichtracked the patterns of people who shared similar level of interestratings. Some of this data is associated with the field of anthropology,but is nonetheless grounded in simple logic. While it is true that theperson having a ‘1’ rating can successfully date a 10-rated person, thisscenario (on average) is not as likely as a relationship in which twopeople share a 7 rating. As a total population, people havingcommensurate scores are more apt to move further along in a datingprocess than mismatched individuals.

Thus, Pam could have her Active Matches populated with other similarlyrated individuals (e.g. 5s, 6s, 7s). To Pam, the choices are allrelative (i.e. Pam would not necessarily realize that she is being shownnothing but 6-rated people and, accordingly, she would arbitrarily ratethis group of people (e.g. as 4s, 9s, 10s, etc). This phenomenon isassociated with ‘positive associative mating’, which is part of agrowing body of anthropological research.

FIGS. 13A-D are simplified screen shots of example relationshipessentials to be used in the on-line dating platform. The relationshipessentials allow for a comparison of answers between two people.Moreover, the relationship essentials allow participants to focus onissues that matter to them. The guided communication process takes anend user through four stages of discovery. Relationship essentials helpto explore what is truly important (and what is not important) in arelationship. The second stage, short answers (which is detailed below),asks the end user to respond to intriguing questions in their own words.In this example, email is the third stage, enabling an end user to beginan open correspondence with the selected matches. Stage four is thepre-date, where the end user meets the selected match in person. Notethat at any stage, the potential match can be closed without questions,explanations, or awkward moments.

FIG. 14 is a simplified screen shot of an example short answerintroduction to be used in the on-line dating platform. FIGS. 15A-C aresimplified screen shots of example short answer questions to be used inthe on-line dating platform. FIG. 16 is a simplified screen shot of anexample short answer response to be used in the on-line dating platform.

There could be a multitude of questions, which could be used to explorethe personalities and character traits of the participants. In oneexample, an end user is asked to select five of the questions: theanswers of which may be important or intriguing for the end user. Theseare the questions that will be presented to the active match that isbeing targeted (in this case, the active match is Pam). Hence, a givenend user is afforded the opportunity to ask probing questions aboutsubject matter that has significant value to that particular end user.(Note that in other embodiments, the end user can develop their ownquestions to be asked to a potential mate. This ability to exercisecreativity in querying a potential mate for certain information can beprovided at various stages of the dating process.)

This level of precision in asking questions that are pertinent to theend user's fundamental value principles yields greater success in anon-line dating environment. In addition, this level of specificity andthe actual question selection process is generally not provided insimilar dating systems. What is imperative in this whole process is theability to relay the information that is most important to the end userat an early stage. Consider a simple questionnaire that does not accountfor an end user's preferences. Questions could focus on politics in theMiddle East, the most romantic city a given person has ever visited, orfeelings about a person's most recent breakup. But, these questions areuseless if none of these topics are vital to an end user's calculus inelecting whether to pursue a relationship with another participant. Thepresent invention addresses this issue, and others, in providing anoptimal user-configurable system that resolves these deficiencies.System 10 offers flexibility to the end user by allowing them to choosethe questions to be posited to a potential match.

The questions could be provided in a simple multiple choice format forpurposes of simplicity. Other formats (e.g. true/false, fill in theblank, short answer, etc.) could also be readily used. Brooke would besent this list of questions to be answered. Brooke would select herpreferred responses. Both individuals (the end user and Brooke) will becompleting the same questions independently without knowing how theother participant responded to these questions.

Once both parties have completed the questions, each party is thenpresented with the answers. More importantly, the answers of thepotential mate can be viewed in the context of their own answers. Thisallows the end user to see exactly how the other party shares specificinterests or how truly disparate responses are from one another.

Note that the answers submitted by both parties can be used byalgorithms that process this feedback. For example, if Todd answered anyof the short answer or multiple choice questions associated with moneyas “A penny saved is a penny earned” then such a response would bematched to other users who responded in a similar fashion (notnecessarily verbatim, but conceptually). In this sense, there is aconstant feedback loop that is present in system 10, as each piece ofdata is considered in the evaluation of future potential matches.

FIG. 17 is a simplified screen shot of an example “Ready To Meet”introduction to be used in the on-line dating platform. FIGS. 18A-B aresimplified screen shots of an example pre-date profile and schedulingprotocol to be used in the on-line dating platform. FIG. 19 is asimplified screen shot of an example pre-date confirmation to be used inthe on-line dating platform. FIG. 20 is a simplified screen shot of anexample suggestion of a location to meet to be used in the on-linedating platform. FIG. 21 is a simplified screen shot of an examplepost-date questionnaire to be used in the on-line dating platform.

After the short answer phase has been completed, the parties can agreeto move to stage three, which is the e-mailing stage. Note that the enduser can skip the last stage in the progression by simply e-mailing theother party in order to determine whether or not the other party wouldfeel comfortable meeting sooner. If the other party agrees to skip stagethree, then both participants can progress together to a potentialmeeting.

Note that both participants input their zip codes when their profilesare established. The platform can take that address information and useit to find an optimal dating location. Both participants can alsoprovide contact information such that if either person is running lateor needs to cancel the meeting, the other person can be notified. Apre-date is a short, low-pressure, in-person meeting between an end userand the selected match. The pre-date may be thought of as anintermediate step between email and a full-fledged date, which may beinclusive of dinner. System 10 can work to find a mutually-convenienttime and location for the meeting, but the end user is welcome tosuggest a time or place that works better for the two participants. Bothparticipants can designate their availability and their general datingpreferences. This information generally will be used to find a mutuallyconvenient time and place for participants to meet. Except for thedetails regarding availability, this information will not be shared withthe potential match.

Hence, system 10 can operate to integrate the schedules and preferencestogether in order to identify a mutually agreeable location. The firstdate location could be a coffee shop, a restaurant, a bar, a park, alibrary, or any other appropriate location for these individuals tomeet. Hence, a simple coffee encounter could be replaced by a lunch, adinner, a movie, a round of drinks, etc. Note that a simple call couldbe placed twenty minutes after the date has begun in order to signalthat the date should end. In other embodiments, a call could be placedto extricate someone from a terrible dating experience. This could bedone in the context of a longer date, whereas one person is simply notenjoying the dating experience and the date is scheduled to continue forseveral more hours.

By setting up a call in the first scenario (i.e. a coffee encounter),the onus is then removed from either party to truncate this initialmeeting. Note that voice-mail or text messages can be sent to eitheruser in cases where an individual is running late or cannot make thepre-date meeting. The appropriate contact information could be providedin the pre-date profile stage. The platform can autonomously trigger aquery for both participants in order confirm that the date occurred. Ifit has, then the system offers a final feedback opportunity for bothparticipants. Hence, once the date has concluded, both parties canreturn to their computers and signal their thoughts on how the dateoccurred. A series of questions can be used in order to solicitimportant responses from the end user. For example, a given end usercould be asked: 1) Was your date on time? 2) Was she interesting? 3) Wasshe a good listener? 4) How was the chemistry between the two of you? 5)Was she well-mannered or polite? 6) Did her photo match her appearance?Chemistry is an essential quality of every successful relationship. Thesooner an end user can find out if there is chemistry between him andthe selected match, the sooner the end user will know whether or notthis is a relationship worth pursuing.

The most important question of the post-date follow up could relate towhether or not the end user cares to see this person again. Note thatthe responses from the post-date follow up are an invaluable tool forthe operator of the website. The responses reflect important charactertraits that can be fed back into the system for future matches. Inaddition, the operator can offer constructive feedback to an end userwho appears to be struggling in some area. Thus, a cumulative average(e.g. after three or more dates) could be taken of several questions,whereby a single area can be pin-pointed for improvement. This isverifiable, informative, and truthful dating information for the enduser to consider. Note that such a “dating report card” is simplymissing in the area of on-line dating. In some cases, an end user mayonly need to tweak certain aspects of his dating makeup in order toachieve the desired result. For example, a given end user may behabitually late or he may not dress appropriately. By admonishing him(in a professional way) about these deficiencies, he can correct theseinadequacies in order to increase the likelihood of him finding asuccessful relationship. In other scenarios, the end user may becounseled on how to better highlight his strengths in his profile or howto better phrase questions for potential matches. Thus, such datingadvice is highly specific and, furthermore, could extend to any of thecomponents identified herein in this patent application.

In one embodiment, in cases where the date went extremely well, theother end user is only shown a positive sentiment associated with theencounter. The results of each question are not necessarily sent over tothe other side in this particular embodiment. Other embodiments mayinclude a full disclosure of the exact responses from the reciprocatingend user. In cases where the end user has scored poorly in the post datefollow up questionnaire, that negative information can be minimized ortoned-down in order to spare the feelings of the other person. In suchan instance, the end user receiving the negative feedback would onlyreceive a benign message signaling that his counterpart did not enjoyherself or that she would simply not be interested in pursuing a futurerelationship with this person. Note that using such a protocol obviatesconcerns of those individuals who are reluctant to answer post datefeedback questions honestly for fear that those responses would be shownto the other participant.

Another component of the present invention allows the end user to turnON or display their own feedback such that other users can see how thisperson is generally reviewed. The person whose feedback will be madepublic can have the option of participating in such an arrangement orelect to keep this information confidential. In this arrangement, othermembers of the on-line community can see how this person issystematically reviewed (e.g. after 3-5 dates). For example, the enduser may be consistently reviewed by others as “a good listener” whichmay be the very quality that certain persons are seeking. Other feedbackcould include items such as: “his photograph was accurate” or “he was 20minutes late.” Virtually any information can be shown to the on-linecommunity, whereby a certain amount of control is exercised by theperson whose information is about to be disclosed to the public. Thisfeature allows for greater transparency for other members of the on-linedating community, as truthful information is being presented for otherend users to consider.

Yet another feature of system 10 relates to a limited search tool, whichcan be executed by a given end user. The term “limited” in this contextonly relates to the operator's desire to confine or to restrict suchsearching capabilities. In other embodiments, the end user may be ableto freely search: unfettered by restrictions imposed by an operator.

This freedom to search for any type of person allows a person to expressinterest in people that he would not otherwise find (i.e. that would notbe sent to his “Interested in You” tab). For example, the end user mayelect to go outside his normal criteria in search of a potential mate.In a similar fashion, the person identified in the search may not beexpecting to see such an individual in her “Interested in You” box.Consider a case where the identified woman in this case is adamant aboutnot dating people who smoke and the person performing the limited searchis a smoker. She will see this particular end user in her “Interested inYou” tab and wonder if she has configured her preferences properly.

One way to address this lack of congruency is to provide an additionaltab (or a sub-tab) for her in order to indicate that there are otherpeople (outside her normal circle of interest) that have expressedinterest in her. Thus, a simple “Other Interested in You” tab could beprovided for her and she could elect whether or not to engage thisperson in conversation or questions, etc. In another embodiment, thereis not a special tab for these (unexpected) individuals and thereceiving party can simply ignore these end users or archive theseindividuals immediately.

FIG. 22 is a simplified screen shot of an example limited searchcriteria template to be used in the on-line dating service. In oneembodiment, the search component includes a first section (e.g. basicsearch criteria) and a second section (e.g. an advanced searchcriteria). Basic search criteria include rudimentary parameters such asdemographics, height, weight, etc. Advanced search criteria are moreinvolved, as they pertain to more conceptual queries (e.g. a desire tohave a big family, thoughts about money, political outlook, etc.).

In operation of an example flow, consider a case where there are fivenew matches in the Active Matches tab and an end user indicates that hehas interest in only one of the five (the other four being sent to thearchive). The end user can be afforded the opportunity to perform onelimited search (e.g. one per day) in order to identify otherparticipants who meet specific criteria in which he is interested. Forexample, the end user may have detailed criteria concerning the age,physical activity level, and education of a potential mate. Criteria caninclude any of the profile information identified herein. The searchcriteria can also include any of the items illustrated in FIG. 22 (orany of the items provided in the other FIGURES included with this patentapplication). Other parameters of interest to a given end user couldreadily be used for search purposes and, thus, are included within thebroad scope of the present invention. The present invention is repletewith any such alternatives and, accordingly, should be construed assuch.

The platform allows the end user to search the system using any selectedparameters and, further, the platform can re-populate the Active Matcheslist with these newly discovered individuals. The limited search can berun on central web site 18 or on supplemental web site 20 or be executedon other devices (e.g. end user devices).

FIGS. 23A-S are simplified screen shots of an example introductory phaseto be used in the on-line dating service. FIG. 23A illustrates anexample home page for initiating the dating experience. FIG. 23B depictsan example personality profile set-up, while FIG. 23C illustrates a corequestionnaire component of the platform in which en user's are askedquestions about their fundamental ideologies. Universal traits arequeried in the segment illustrated by FIG. 23D.

FIG. 23E illustrates a non-verbal communication screen shot in which aperson is asked to give their interpretation of a particular scene. Thisinformation can be used in processing and generating an accurate profilefor a given individual. FIG. 23F relates to sensory perception, as theend user is asked to complete a quick test under a time constraint. FIG.23G relates to a biophysical profile for the end user, who is asked todescribe their own hand.

FIG. 23H simply queries the end user for his preferences for ethnicity,religion, etc. It should also be noted that an accompanying slider baris provided to gauge the importance of each of these qualities. FIG. 23Iillustrates a dual-slider bar in which two elements are consideredtogether. A profile headline and essay are requested in FIG. 23J, whichsolicits additional thoughts from the end user.

FIGS. 23K-L illustrate how two people are matched using all of theinformation provided previously. This intelligent matching is a resultof numerous algorithms and (potentially) judgment calls orconfigurations made by managers of the platform. The weight of thisinformation may be based on anthropological considerations, scientificstudies, levels of testosterone/estrogen, and/or any other designation(which may be simply a choice made by one or more operators of the website). Considerable flexibility is provided by the platform of thepresent invention, as virtually any parameter may be evaluated,considered, and accorded a selected weight for purposes of enhancing thedating experience for the individual.

FIG. 23M illustrates this particular end user's personality traits ascompared to his counterpart (Liz). Note that in this case (asillustrated by the graphical illustration), there is good congruency incharacter traits between these two individuals. FIG. 23N illustrates howthe end user is prompted to send their relationship essentials to apotential match. FIGS. 23O-P illustrate an end user selecting seven (7)relationship essentials to be sent to their dating counterpart. FIGS.23Q-R illustrate an example relationship essentials layout. A number ofslider bars are provided to make end user selections in this regard.Finally, FIG. 23S illustrates a solicitation for responding to Todd'srelationship essentials.

As evidenced by FIGS. 23A-S and by the accompanying description, thisintroductory phase focuses on the true interests and preferences ofmembers of the on-line dating community. The information gathered issolicited in different ways and is highly interactive. Moreover, suchtests are fun and easy to complete, as the end user can quickly navigatethought these preliminary steps. However, their simplicity should nothide their significance; these tests provide critical information thatis to be used in addressing compatibility issues and, furthermore,enhancing the chances of long-term dating success.

FIGS. 24A-G are simplified screen shots of an example pre-date phase tobe used in the on-line dating service. FIGS. 24A-B illustrate a numberof graphical depictions for determining availability, eatingpreferences, etc. the end users involved in this pre-date scenario. Oncethese items have been completed, a pre-date request is then sent to theplatform. FIG. 24C illustrates an optional message (for a potentialmatch) that can be included in the pre-date request. FIG. 24Dillustrates what the dating counterpart would see after the pre-daterequest is sent. The end user receiving this message can elect to acceptthis date or the end user can suggest alternative locations for thismeeting, which is further detailed by FIG. 24E. FIG. 24F illustrates apre-date confirmation for these two parties. FIG. 24G illustrates thesituation identified above, where a personal message has been provided(“Hey, let's meet . . . ) and the other party has the option ofdeclining the invitation. In cases where the end user would not feelcomfortable with a date at this point, she can elect to continue withthe e-mailing process.

Some of the steps illustrated in the preceding FIGURES may be changed ordeleted where appropriate and additional steps may also be added to theprocess flows. These changes may be based on specific communicationarchitectures or particular interfacing arrangements and configurationsof associated elements and do not depart from the scope or the teachingsof the present invention. It is important to recognize that the FIGURESillustrate just one of a myriad of potential implementations of system10.

Although the present invention has been described in detail withreference to particular embodiments, it should be understood thatvarious other changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made heretowithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.For example, although the present invention has been described withreference to a dating protocol, any service that deals with (or thatleverages) photos could readily benefit from the present invention.

Moreover, although the present invention has been described withreference to a number of elements included within system 10, theseelements may be rearranged or positioned in any appropriate manner toaccommodate any suitable networking configurations. In addition, any ofthe elements of FIG. 1 may be provided as separate external componentsto system 10 or to each other where appropriate.

It should also be noted that any of the question portions of theplatform can leverage any type of format. Thus, in establishing apersonality profile, in generating a pre-date profile, in executingrelationship essentials, in answering short answer questions, anysuitable question format can be employed. Example formats include aYes/No format, a multiple choice question format, a short answer format,a true/false format, etc. Other formats can readily be used in order toachieve the desired responses.

Additionally, it should be noted that the dual-slider bar configuration(as depicted in FIGS. 21 and 23I) can be used in any segment of theon-line dating process. For example, such a dual-axis rating componentmay be used in the profile or feedback stages. Other operations of theplatform could readily employ such an arrangement, whereby two items areevaluated together (one on the X-axis and another on the Y-axis).

Numerous other changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, andmodifications may be ascertained to one skilled in the art and it isintended that the present invention encompass all such changes,substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications as fallingwithin the scope of the appended claims.

1. An apparatus, comprising: a server configured to manage informationrelated to one or more end users, wherein the server includes aprocessor and a memory element, and wherein the users are provided witha set of questions, wherein a first set of answers to the questions froma first user are displayed concurrent with a second set of answers tothe questions from a second user, and wherein the set of questions to beanswered are designated by the first user and not the second user,wherein the first and second sets of answers are displayed for the firstend user in a graphical illustration that reflects the second end user'sanswers in comparison with the first end user's answers.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the server is further configured toprovide a comparison of the first and second sets of answers for thequestions in relation to each other, and wherein the second set ofanswers is delivered to the first user.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the questions are in a short answer format such that the secondend user is required to author original answer information.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the questions are in a multiple choicequestion format, a true/false format, or a yes/no format.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the graphical illustration quantifiessimilarities between first and second sets of answers.
 6. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein if a sliding scale is designated in a particulardirection that is indicative of a positive level of interest, then thesecond user is moved to an active state, which is displayed to the firstuser.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein if a sliding scale isdesignated in a particular direction that is indicative of a negativelevel of interest, then the second user is moved to an inactive statefor the first user.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a sliding scaleis used to generate an interest rating component used to match profilesof the users to each other.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theserver is provided as part of a central web site that includes aprocessor and software configured to interface with the users, andwherein the central web site is associated with a job seeking service, aperson finder service, on-line dating service, an athletic service, areal estate service, an academic service, a real estate finding service,or an escort service.
 10. A non-transitory method to be performed in anetwork environment, comprising: managing information related to one ormore end users; and providing the users with a set of questions, whereina first set of answers to the questions from a first user are displayedconcurrent with a second set of answers to the questions from a seconduser, and wherein the set of questions to be answered are designated bythe first user and not the second user, wherein the first and secondsets of answers are displayed for the first end user in a graphicalillustration that reflects the second end user's answers in comparisonwith the first end user's answers.
 11. The method of claim 10, furthercomprising: providing a comparison of the first and second sets ofanswers for the questions in relation to each other, and wherein thesecond set of answers is delivered to the first user.
 12. The method ofclaim 10, wherein the questions are in a multiple choice questionformat, a true/false format, or a yes/no format.
 13. The method of claim10, wherein if a sliding scale is designated in a particular directionthat is indicative of a positive level of interest, then the second useris moved to an active state, which is displayed to the first user. 14.The method of claim 10, wherein if a sliding scale is designated in aparticular direction that is indicative of a negative level of interest,then the second user is moved to an inactive state for the first user.15. The method of claim 10, wherein a sliding scale is used to generatean interest rating component used to match profiles of the users to eachother.
 16. Logic encoded in one or more tangible media that includescode for execution and when executed by a processor is configured toperform operations comprising: managing information related to one ormore end users; and providing the users with a set of questions forwhich answers can be completed, wherein a first set of answers to thequestions from a first user are displayed concurrent with a second setof answers to the questions from a second user, and wherein the set ofquestions to be answered are designated by the first user and not thesecond user, wherein the first and second sets of answers are displayedfor the first end user in a graphical illustration that reflects thesecond end user's answers in comparison with the first end user'sanswers.
 17. The logic of claim 16, wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to perform operations comprising: providing a comparison ofthe first and second sets of answers for the questions in relation toeach other, and wherein the second set of answers is delivered to thefirst user.
 18. The logic of claim 16, wherein if a sliding scale isdesignated in a particular direction that is indicative of a positivelevel of interest, then the second user is moved to an active state,which is displayed to the first user.
 19. The logic of claim 16, whereinif a sliding scale is designated in a particular direction that isindicative of a negative level of interest, then the second user ismoved to an inactive state for the first user.
 20. The logic of claim16, wherein a sliding scale is used to generate an interest ratingcomponent used to match profiles of the users to each other.